Additional Information on La Val Albarino Rias Baixas 2014

Varietal: Albarino

Albarino grapes have been cultivated and processed in Spain and Portugal for centuries, and have played a key role in developing the white wine cultures of these two countries. Today, they are grown in several locations around the world, in regions where plenty of heat and humidity help them reach full ripeness. Such climatic condition allow the grapes to strongly express their unique flavors and their strong characteristics in the wines which they produce, and which are greatly enjoyed by those looking for a white wine offering something a little different. Most commonly, Albarino grapes produce wines which are very aromatic, pale in color and full of soft fruit flavors, including peach and apricot. They are renowned for their high acidity, which couples nicely with a light body and some residual bitterness coming from the grapes' thick skins and plentiful pips.

Region: Galicia

Spain is one of Europe's most ideal wine producing countries, with a wide range of terroirs and ideal climatic conditions for cultivating a fantastic variety of grapevines. However, the region of Galicia suffered a dramatic fall from grace in the 19th century, due to economic downturns which led to vineyards being left untended, and wineries derelict. This was a tragic loss to the wine world, as Galicia had once been an important center for Spanish wine, and one which had considerable influence and popularity due to its excellent range of white and red blended wines. However, the 20th century saw Galician wine making undergo a rebirth, and today, thanks to years of hard work and dedication, Galician wines are back on the shelves, and attracting a lot of attention thanks to their stunning flavors and careful, balanced blends of native fine grape varietals.

Country: Spain

Ever since the Phoenicians and Romans brought their knowledge of vine cultivation to Spanish soils, the country's culture has grown alongside wine production, with wine being a vital part of Spanish identity and Spanish traditions. Each region of Spain has a wine quite distinct from the others, and it is produced by smallholders and families as much as it is by large companies and established wineries. From the relatively mild and lush regions of La Rioja to the arid plateaus that surround Madrid, grapes are grown in abundance for the now booming Spanish wine industry, and new laws and regulations have recently been put in place to keep the country's standards high. By combining traditional practices with modern technology, Spanish wineries are continuing to produce distinctive wines of great character, flavor and aroma, with the focus shifting in recent decades to quality over quantity.